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When and why did you start training for fighting? I began wrestling when I was 7 at Longwood in Twinsburg, Ohio. After high school and college wrestling I chose not to pursue Olympic training. At that time, I started watching UFC events and decided to give it a try. I started training in November 2002 and had my first fight in December 2002. I began training with Mark Coleman and Kevin Randleman at the Hammer House in Columbus, Ohio.

What ranks and titles have you held? 3x NCAA Division II All-American. 4x NCAA DIV II National Qualifier.Do you have any heroes? My family. My mother, father, and sister for always supporting my efforts and in many times sacrificing a lot to allow me to achieve my goals. Julie Ann, she is a hero in more aspects than anyone I have ever met.

What is your favorite technique? Intensity and belief in myself. Much of this game is mental and whether I am standing and striking or working for a takedown, I will commit to it 100%.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? Fighting in the UFC is an absolute honor. Every time I train, I push myself to the limit because having this opportunity is every fighters dream. The UFC is the reason why we fight; we want to be a UFC fighter. To know that I am fighting in the UFC is an accomplishment that is unparalleled to any other feeling as an athlete.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I received my Bachelors of Science in Education from Ashland University in Ashland, Ohio. Currently, I am finishing my Masters in Educational Administration from the University of Phoenix ground campus.

Getty Images reserves the right to pursue unauthorized users of this image or clip. If you violate our intellectual property you may be liable for: actual damages, loss of income, and profits you derive from the use of this image or clip, and, where appropriate, the costs of collection and/or statutory damages up to $150,000 (USD).